Socio-cultural identity and attitudes to sport in Northern Ireland

Abstract

A representati ve sample of 1007 adults was interviewed to obtain a view of popular attitudes towards sport and physical activities in Northern Ireland. The study complements previous research which has focused on other stakeholder groups in Northern Ireland. This paper focuses on those aspects of the survey relating to the sensitive and often controversial interface between sport and issues of culture and identity in Northern Ireland. It investigates ways in which sport may be used as an expression of social identity and explores the role played by sport in building bridges between the two communities. The study lends support to the traditional view that sporting activities are heavily influenced by religious and community background. Drawing on recent research in social psychology, ideas are also proposed for promoting sport as a means of expressing an inclusive and shared ‘Northern Irish’ identity. The study demonstrates that the weight of adult opinion is behind the construction of a community relatio...